Fire protection systems, which include backflow testing and service, safeguard people and structures from horrific disasters. However, most individuals are unaware of how fire protection systems function.
People believe it is as easy as triggering the alarm and the sprinklers coming off—if it were only that simple. Instead, when the alarm is triggered, a highly pressured system explodes, unleashing water that keeps people and the property safe. The backflow preventer is another vital part of the fire prevention system.
What's Backflow?
To be able to discuss backflow testing and service, we must first understand what backflow is. When considering your building's plumbing or fire prevention system, water must flow to the property. Backflow occurs when water rushes away from the property.
Backflow is hazardous because it can pollute the environment. Contaminants can get into the water and make it unhealthy.
Backflow is prevalent in fire prevention systems because the water shoots everywhere. That is why a backflow preventer is required to keep the water flowing in just one direction. Though having a backflow preventer isn't enough—the world isn't that simple. You should also conduct backflow testing and service to these systems to ensure they are operational.
How Does Backflow Prevention Work?
Mechanical backflow preventers have check valves, air inlets, and relief valves. They are put on pipes to prevent pressured materials from a fire suppression system from flowing back into a pure water supply.
Fire irrigation and sprinklers pipelines are filled with pressurized materials such as:
- Chemicals
- Foam for firefighting
- Gases
- Solids in suspension
- Other liquids or water
The following are two cross-connection controls that are often used in pipe systems:
Double Check (DC) Valve Assembly - a closed system with two check valves; suitable for usage in low-hazard environments.
Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) Valve Assembly - two independently working check valves and a hydraulically driven differential relief valve; preferable in high-risk situations.
When everything is in order, they all work equally well. Only the RPZ, however, is designed to preserve the water supply by disposing of back-flowing water caused by the failure of check valves or relief valves.
How Can I Prevent Contamination From Backflow?
It is your job as the owner of a business facility to ensure that backflow is avoided. We propose that you not only install a backflow mechanism but also contact a fire protection organization to do backflow testing and service. Backflow testing and service verify that everything is operationally sound.
If you own a fire sprinkler system, you are aware that it takes water from the main to extinguish fires. Have a backflow prevention system to stop the non-potable water from entering the public water supply.
Where Are Backflow Preventers Used?
Backflow preventers are frequently used in conjunction with fire prevention systems. However, they are also used in home plumbing systems. These devices keep impurities from getting into the water supply. They essentially verify that the water is safe to drink.
Backflow preventers are used in irrigation, as well as in home plumbing and fire safety. Consider this: if the water that feeds the plants contains toxins, the plants will never develop correctly. As a result, you must examine your backflow preventer to verify that your greens remain green.
What If I Don't Have My Backflow Tested?
On the outside, you might think that missing your annual backflow testing and service is not a big deal. The most immediate penalty for failing this exam, however, will be a fine from the authorities. If you keep refusing to take this easy RPZ exam, the government's disciplinary procedures will become more severe.
While incurring a fine is a clear penalty, the very harmful repercussions of failing to perform backflow testing and service are not. Indeed, you may be unaware of the risk you are placing yourself in until it's too late.
When a backflow protection device fails to function, no alert is generated. It also does not immediately cause your water to change colors. Instead, water contaminated with pollutants will slowly seep into your property. Pollution does not pose a health risk, but contamination does.
The flavor of the water you drink may also change, although it may take some time. People will become ill if you do not address this issue and keep exposing yourself or even your colleagues to harmful toxins.
Sadly, a backflow problem will not harm just one home or structure. That water will spread throughout the town, exposing many more to potentially hazardous water.
By the time you understand the source of the problem is your water, it may have caused irreversible harm. Is this a risk you're willing to take?
The Benefits of Backflow Testing and Service
backflow testing and service inspect backflow preventers to verify they are functioning properly. Backflow preventers should be tested on a regular basis so that consumers may be certain that they will function in an emergency. Each backflow preventer should be labeled with particular dates indicating when it should be examined. So, why is backflow testing necessary? Here are a few of the reasons.
Health Issues
The major reason why backflow testing and service are required is for health reasons. Contaminants from the sewage system can contaminate water that goes backward. In a household situation, this is highly risky since you might wind up drinking dirty water, putting your health at risk.
Prevents Structural Damage
backflow testing and service also protect structures from harm. Consider this: if the H2O flows backward, it is likely to collide with the walls and contaminate them. Over time, this rust will cause more serious harm. If the water keeps hitting the same location, the walls will eventually break due to the moisture. So, if you want to preserve your buildings in good condition, examine your backflow preventer right away.
Concerns About the Environment
Water pollution is never healthy for the ecosystem. Toxins re-enter the environment if contaminants are let back into the water supply. Contaminated water is recycled into the sewage system and finally ends up in our seas and lakes. This is just another reason to examine your backflow preventer on a frequent basis. Our seas and lakes are already polluted; you don't need to contribute to the problem by reintroducing filthy water into them.
Community Health
Backflow testing and service also contribute to healthy communities. A town can never be progressive if it is plagued by dirty water. Several community members may become ill, and structures may begin to crumble due to the excess moisture. As a result, you should examine your backflow preventers on a regular basis before the entire society becomes ill. Cities that fail to test their backflow preventers regularly or fail to take them seriously may face federal penalties or other requirements.
How Can We Prevent Backflow In A Fire Prevention And Protection System?
To avoid backflow, the most basic way is to provide an air gap, which is an open vertical distance between any pipe system-connected equipment and any site where polluted water might accumulate. When there is insufficient room to generate an air gap, the installation of a backflow preventer may be necessary.
Backflow preventers are classified into numerous categories, including:
Reduced Pressure Zone Assembly: This is the accepted standard for backflow protection in apartment complexes and condominiums because it offers the highest level of contamination protection.
Pressure Vacuum Breaker Assembly: This includes a specifically engineered, spring-loaded poppet that is ideal for high-hazard situations or when valves are positioned downstream.
In low-hazard applications, a DCA valve protects from back pressure and siphonage.
Why Should You Work With a Company Like Us?
Simple to Plan
We at A-1 Fire & Security Equipment will take care of all our clients' full backflow testing and service procedure. Every spring, we contact all of our clients to schedule their backflow testing and service.
There Is No Interference
We can conduct your backflow test without disrupting your day or schedule in any way. In fact, you don't even have to be at home for us to complete your exam.
We will schedule a visit if you're among the very few people who've had their backflow prevention device inside. You're not required to do anything else while we're present.
There Is No Paperwork
We'll also manage all of the paperwork, so you don't have to worry about anything. We'll update the test and date on the backflow prevention device and provide you with a copy of your report.
When you have a backflow test performed by us at A-1 Fire & Security Equipment, you will not have to touch or even view your RPZ!
Contact Us For Backflow Testing And Service
Contact us for thorough backflow testing and service for your property. Our highly qualified specialists are eager to ensure that the fire protection system operates reliably.